"I was neverconcerned forour safety,and alwaysFelt Escapadecould handlethe situation."Views of Cassis, FranceZealand, even though our weather router said to depart. I would not want to do itagain, but Escapade handled nicely as we were beating into 50 to 55+ knotheadwinds for 12 hours, then into 40 knot headwinds for five long days. Afterthat, lesser weather seems tame by comparison. We experienced a number ofgales, but if they are from behind they are hardly a worry. The Tasman and RedSeas lived up to their wicked reputations. The major crossings of the Atlantic,Pacific and Indian Oceans were all very pleasant, and we did them quicklycompared with most other cruisers crossing at the same time. I was neverconcerned for our safety,and always felt Escapade could handle the situation.The key is the mental attitude of the crew, and making sure they have had enoughsleep. I believe we drive the boat harder than most cruisers, and enjoy (ortolerate) higher winds and seas. This is no doubt due to the capabilities of theOyster.A concern of many cruisers, especially after the events of September 11, ispotential piracy. We went through the Strait of Malacca, the Gulf of Aden and theRed Sea, all noted for piracy. We followed all recommended procedures such asstaying far off shore, proceeding quickly, maintaining VHF silence, etc. In theevent, we had absolutely no problems, and I heard of none from other cruisers.There are no guarantees, but I believe that the risk of piracy is a lot less thanmany other risks which must be considered and dealt with. For example, I knowof at least six boats (fortunately no crew) which were lost on reefs at variousplaces around the world.Another question we are asked is if we had a favorite place. We enjoyed it all!(Some places more than others.) Each place and passage was unique and had it’sown special charm or character. Of course, we wanted a good sail, a safe andsecure anchorage or marina, and interesting and accessible shore based activitiesand sights to visit. We didn’t have everything every time, but we had plenty of goodand great days. Whether we were the only boat anchored near a remote desertedisland, or if we were in a marina in downtown Sydney, or anything in between, it wasall memorable.Once underway things fall into place and a routine develops. In short, although ittakes a lot of forethought and planning, it is easy to sail around the world. And it isgreat fun.14 www.oystermarine.com
Sunset off the Queensland coast, AustraliaAt anchor inHiva-Oa, FrenchPolynesiawww.oystermarine.com 15